Archive for category: HIV/AIDS

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Addressing HIV/AIDS in Kazakhstan

HIV/AIDS in KazakhstanKazakhstan is a large Central Asian country, bordering Russia at its north, and Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan at its south. It is a developing country, and international aid plays a large part in disease control. HIV/AIDS in Kazakhstan has been a growing problem for years. A combination of domestic and international aid has been successfully active in Kazakhstan, but this problem is very much ongoing. Furthermore, U.S. budget cuts are threatening aid which Kazakhstan relies on.

Overview of HIV/AIDS in Kazakhstan

The Eastern Europe and Central Asian region (EECA) is the only region in the world where HIV and AIDS infections, as well as AIDS-related deaths, are still rising. A study carried out under Dove Press shows a consistent increase in the percentage of the Kazakh population living with HIV since 2010 – 0.12% of the population in 2010, and 0.27% in 2020. As of 2024, around 43,000 adults aged above 15 live with HIV in Kazakhstan.

Poverty also has some correlation with HIV/AIDS in Kazakhstan. Sex workers are at higher risk of infection, a lifestyle which is generally a product of poverty and desperation. Furthermore, drug-users are at higher risk of HIV than non-drug-users, another practice which has links – cause or effect – to poverty. One way in which Kazakhstan could indirectly address its HIV/AIDS problem would be to help the poorest, and bring people out of particularly vulnerable situations.

There are reasons for optimism: 

  • The HIV epidemic in Kazakhstan is isolated to certain groups, such as people who inject drugs, or men who have sex with other men. It is not a population-wide epidemic, and therefore eradication is more easily attainable. 
  • According to UNAIDS, in 2024, there was a 2% decrease in new HIV cases compared to 2010.
  • The international community is helping Kazakhstan in a number of ways.

The Importance of International Aid

There are multiple NGOs and state-funded organizations which have helped and are helping Kazakhstan. These include:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): CDC is a U.S.-based and government funded organization which works globally. In 2005, the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) implemented actions, and since then, CDC has supported Kazakh domestic organizations, such as KSCDID, in researching and treating HIV/AIDS in Kazakhstan:

  • CDC has improved online services, making information accessible to the Kazakh population and encouraging informed decision-making.
  • CDC supports five HIV treatment facilities with funding and technology. These accounted for 5,234 patients in 2024, a 34% increase since 2019.
  • CDC claims to have supplied effective treatment to more than 20,000 infected people in Kazakhstan, in collaboration with its government.

The UNDP: The UN Development Program (UNDP) has helped to modernize health care in Kazakhstan:

  • Invested in modern, effective equipment for PCR testing in 15 different AIDS centers across Kazakhstan.
  • Pushed HIV and AIDS testing towards automation – less direct contact with doctors results in lower likelihood of human error or even further spread of infection.

USAID: This was an organization created under President Bush. It is credited with saving 25 million lives worldwide through its work on HIV and AIDS, and was very influential in Kazakhstan:

  • USAID allocated more than $15 million USD to Kazakhstan in 2024. About $8.8 million USD out of this total was invested in health care, with the rest being split between goals such as upholding human rights, stimulating economic development and maintaining peace.
  • In 2020, USAID launched a flagship project in Kazakhstan which tested more than 10,000 people for HIV/AIDS, 600 of which were positive. This project also granted life-saving health care to more than 3,000 people living with HIV.

Threat to International Aid

This year, President Trump aims to decrease government spending by $9 billion USD. One victim of these cuts is USAID, which had to shut down in July 2025 due to lack of funding. Both former-presidents Bush and Obama have condemned this action.

The organization UNAIDS particularly focuses on the significance of the U.S. funding, and impact of the cuts. It projects a 90% reduction in HIV testing and outreach in two regions of Kazakhstan, accounting for 20% of the drug-using population and 9% of men who have sex with men.

The morale of the Kazakh people is another important factor. The fear of HIV and AIDS negatively affects the population, and UNAIDS highlights the significance and growth of this fear with the introduction of the temporary U.S. funding freeze in March 2025, even before the cuts have been fully implemented.

Reasons to Be Optimistic

Under these threatening circumstances, there are multiple actors working to soften the potential blows as much as possible. For example, the Government of Kazakhstan is committed to filling the gaps that the U.S. left with domestic funding. The government already covered 95% of the costs of HIV research and treatment, and so were not entirely reliant on the CDC before the cuts.

Communities in Kazakhstan are also mobilizing. There has been increased volunteering, as well as outreach workers moving to AIDS centers. There has also been dialogue with the Global Fund, which could help in the place of U.S. aid.

Meanwhile, in the case of the U.S. Government, in July 2025, U.S. senators said that they would end a plan to cut $400 million dollars from PEPFAR funding, a decision which many experts are relieved about. This should significantly lessen the potential impact of the cuts on HIV and AIDS relief, in Kazakhstan and across the world.

Looking Ahead

In summary, while HIV/AIDS in Kazakhstan is a significant problem, and the threats to international aid funding are of further concern, there is cause for optimism. The people of Kazakhstan, as well as the international community, are adapting and making the best of their situation.

– Oliver Evans

Oliver is based in Devon, United UK and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Jars of Clay and Blood:Water Aid To Africa

Jars of ClayIn the early days of their shows, the three-time GRAMMY-winning band Jars of Clay encouraged audiences to support the humanitarian organization World Vision by citing statistics about AIDS in Africa. Youth group members and parents would visit the tables and sign up, creating what Jars of Clay singer Dan Haseltine described as a movement of “activists for a day.” Haseltine was trying to turn his concern for global issues into tangible action. 

In 2002, Haseltine took a 10-day trip to South Africa, Malawi and Zimbabwe, where he witnessed the devastation caused by the water crisis as well as the AIDS epidemic. That experience led him to start the company Blood:Water, which has now been around for more than 20 years and has raised $45 million to address the water crisis and the HIV/AIDS epidemic in more than 12 African countries, supporting more than 1 million people in their fight for clean water and good health.

Blood:Water’s Local Aid Policy

One of the things that sets Blood:Water apart is that while most nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) and charitable organizations only allow 14% of funding from international donors to go to local organizations in Africa, the organization prioritizes working locally. Over the last 20 years, it has funded 33 partner organizations. As Jake Smith, executive director of Blood:Water, explains, “At Blood:Water, we’ve learned over time that the best way to create lasting change in communities, whether here at home or across the world, is to begin with the people closest to the issues themselves.”

Another factor that has made Blood:Water a successful and reputable organization is its model for action. To remain faithful to the communities it serves, the organization maintains an eight-year funding commitment. It seeks out, vets and partners with organizations in East and Southern Africa, providing long-term organizational strengthening and flexible financial support. In particular, Blood:Water applies a specific Institutional Developmental Framework (IDF) to ensure grants are directed where they can best support the health and growth of both the organizations and the people they serve.

The Progress So Far

Since its inception in 2004, Blood:Water has witnessed major advances in technology surrounding both clean water and the AIDS epidemic in Africa. “Unprecedented investment in the HIV/AIDS sector has transformed the nature of the disease from a death sentence to a chronically manageable illness. Water has grown into a robust sector, integrating hygiene and sanitation and is now one of many available interventions that impact the quality and length of life for a person living with HIV/AIDS.”

While much of what Blood:Water set out to accomplish has been achieved, the organization remains committed to the growth of Southern and Eastern Africa through strategic partnerships. Along with the United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Blood:Water is aiming to reduce new HIV infections by 90% by 2030.

Looking Ahead

Jars of Clay and Dan Haseltine began a journey at the turn of the century not just as musicians sharing their dreams and concerns with listeners, but by putting action to their concern for the world’s most vulnerable people. After more than 20 years, they are still going strong with their organization Blood:Water, which has provided nearly 1 million people with access to safe water, trained more than 1 million people in hygiene and sanitation practices and supported at least 700,000 people with HIV treatment or prevention services.

– Gregory Walker

Gregory Walker is based in York, PA, USA and focuses on Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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HIV/AIDS in Slovakia: How Prevention Keeps Rates Low

HIV/AIDS in SlovakiaHIV/AIDS in Slovakia remains among the lowest in Europe, demonstrating how prevention, testing and treatment can keep infection rates under control. Strong public health policies, accessible care and community initiatives continue to drive this success story. Yet, some vulnerable groups facing poverty may still struggle to receive support. However, Slovakia’s progress demonstrates how addressing inequality is key to sustaining low infection rates.

Low Infection Rates Provide a Strong Foundation

  • Slovaks between the ages of 15-49 have an incredibly low rate of HIV, falling below 0.1%.
  • While the incidence rate doubled from 2014 to 2015, new infection rates have stabilized at approximately 0.02 per 1,000 uninfected individuals, reflecting effective public health efforts.
  • From 2019 to 2023, Slovakia’s HIV rate averaged 2.44 per 100,000, exactly half the EU/EEA average of 4.88.      
  • In 2022, a total of 67% of HIV diagnoses were previous positives (already diagnosed beforehand), meaning around 19% were newly diagnosed. Slovakia ranked the second lowest for newly diagnosed rates in Europe, just after Ireland; this was consistent in 2023, too.      
  • The EU/EEA reported 24,731 HIV diagnoses in 2023, while Slovakia reported only 142 cases (similar to 2022 data), highlighting Slovakia’s low contribution to the total. Additionally, there has been a decrease of 61 Slovakian diagnoses between 2023 and 2022.

Early Testing Detects Cases Sooner

Early diagnosis and effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) are two key benefits of early testing. Slovakia emphasizes voluntary testing through mobile clinics and testing centers located throughout the country, which is crucial for preventing transmission.

Five HIV/AIDS treatment centers operate in Bratislava, Košice, Martin, Nitra and Banská Bystrica. Bratislava accounts for 68% of patients. Services are free of charge regardless of insurance or employment, including for refugees.

Treatment Coverage Continues to Grow

The five centers provide life-saving treatment to those living with HIV/AIDS in Slovakia, ensuring care is accessible and available. A 2021 case study of 117 Slovaks with HIV showed that 89.4% received ART, and 85.1% expressed satisfied with it.

In October 2019, health care providers treated 895 individuals in Slovakia for HIV. Worldwide, researchers and health care providers have made much progress in HIV treatment over the past four decades.

Education and Awareness Campaigns Reach Key Groups

Despite progress, stigma is high surrounding HIV/AIDS in Slovakia. Many people do not share their diagnosis or attempt to ignore and hide their symptoms.

Out of 117 individuals, 60% hide their HIV medication, with only 2.9% willing to openly talk about it. Meanwhile, about 31.6% reported that people stigmatized and discriminated against them, especially dentists who refused to treat them.

People may discriminate against those living with HIV/AIDS in Slovakia through physical abuse, harassment and denial of housing, which can cause severe mental health challenges. However, public individuals, such as former Princess Diana of the U.K., have often fought the stigma surrounding the diseases. Princess Diana challenged these views when she opened the U.K.’s first dedicated HIV/AIDS unit in London in 1987, showing compassion towards patients and challenging misconceptions.

NGOS and Community Initiatives Make an Impact

NGOs addressing HIV/AIDS in Slovakia also play a vital role in reducing stigma and supporting vulnerable groups. These include:

  • Dom Svelta Slovakia: Formed in 2013, this organization fights stigma, educates communities and enforces the human rights of those living with HIV. In 2024, it provided 2,610 tests with 886 specifically being for HIV.
  • Odyseus: Odyseus formed in 1997 and provides outreach to sex workers, young people and other vulnerable groups living with HIV/AIDS, contributing to social inclusion through activities. It had 472 new visitors in 2024.
  • Prima: Prima formed in 1998 and offers anonymous HIV rapid testing with test counselling and result counselling from its trained medical staff, as well as social assistance. It also provides informative materials for schools and teachers on preventative activities for students.

All the services at these NGOs are free of charge, meaning that even those experiencing poverty can still access support and treatment. These NGOs play vital roles in reducing stigma, encouraging treatment and helping those whom traditional health care facilities may not, all while keeping infection rates low through direct community engagement.

Poverty and HIV/AIDS in Slovakia

Poverty and inequality influence HIV/AIDS in Slovakia. Migrants, sex workers and individuals with low incomes often face barriers accessing health care and sufficient education, consequently increasing their vulnerability to catching HIV/AIDS. However, the above NGOs and many more bridge this gap by offering their free support programs and tests.

Slovakia was found to be the second-poorest country in the EU in 2023, with senior individuals affected the most. Poverty and HIV/AIDS are interconnected, where poverty increases the chances of HIV/AIDS and HIV/AIDS increases poverty. Individuals with lower income or education are more prone to catching HIV/AIDS due to a lack of information and prevention or due to being homeless. Then, HIV/AIDS can easily slow economic growth, resulting in poverty.

Looking Ahead

HIV/AIDS in Slovakia remains low, with infection rates under control. Strong public health policies, accessible treatment and active community engagement drive this success story. For those facing poverty and inequality, access to care can be more challenging. However, NGOs are supporting these vulnerable groups.

– Rebecca Lamb-Busby

Rebecca is based in Hull, UK and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

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Namibia’s Resilience: USAID Programs in Namibia

USAID Programs in NamibiaIn light of USAID cuts and freezes, Namibia is delivering the Reach Namibia program, Lifeline Namibia and early childhood development initiatives. These three USAID programs in Namibia raise awareness about the importance of protecting and empowering the disadvantaged groups within Namibia’s youth.

About HIV/AIDS in Namibia 

HIV/AIDS is particularly prevalent in Southern Africa, with Namibia having a high rate, as there are 210,000 cases, of whom 7,700 are children. Young girls and women, sex workers, men who have sex with men and trans Namibians remain the most vulnerable groups at risk of HIV.  Namibia has been at the forefront of controlling the epidemic, especially the massive progress in almost eliminating mother-to-child transmission rates. Through antiretroviral therapy, HIV positive pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, 96% of newborn children were born free of the disease, yet the stigma and infection rates remain a challenge and are being tackled by leading programs which focus on the vulnerable groups in Namibia’s youth. 

Reach Namibia

The first of the USAID programs in Namibia is Reach Namibia. Built on the foundations of the Dreams Hope program, Reach Namibia is an extension of the original program which aims to reduce the number of HIV/AIDS infections amongst young girls. It also empowers them with social protection, education, economic skills and reproductive services, in turn dismantling the stigma of adolescent children having HIV. 

While overlapping in its goals and initiatives with Dreams Hope, Reach Namibia is gender inclusive for all HIV vulnerable children. By providing extensive health and social services, the program creates short-term and long-term support, including access to medical attention and equipping them with life skills. This increases their chances of accessing education, the job market and health services.

Reach Namibia offers job training courses from plumbing and bricklaying to baking and banking. Not only does this directly increase young people’s future opportunities, but it also tackles the stigma against young victims of HIV. Instead of others defining them by their disease, they become defined as hard-working and qualified young people, who manage the disease. Additionally, the program offers internships and placements to graduates, which are structured around the realistic job market. Therefore, it has an extensive socio-economic reach as well as providing health care. Reach Namibia addresses and tackles different issues within society simultaneously while empowering the most at-risk children and developing a resilient and hard-working generation.

Lifeline/Childline Namibia 

Lifeline/Childline Namibia is a child-centered crisis helpline and child wellbeing organization in Namibia. USAID Health Evaluation and Applied Research Development supports the larger national strategy for parents and caregivers. Following the 2019 Violence Against Children and Youth Survey, which demonstrated that young children experienced a form of violence, 40% of Namibian girls and 45% of boys suffered from emotional, physical and sexual abuse in their childhood.

Zelanidia de Waal, a consultant at Childline, reinforces their goal of “empowering caregivers to break cycles of violence in their families and communities.” As such, Childline goes beyond the family structures, encouraging the communities of caregivers gives vulnerable children an outlet and support system outside of their homes. Between 2021 and 2023, Childline achieved a 51% response rate and showed continuous operational progression alongside increased referrals from government entities, reinforcing its collaborative efforts. For parents and caregivers, Childline provides information booklets which address parenting support, communications, gender norms, social media safety and child protection. Service providers distribute these resources and have an equal responsibility to supply caregivers with the necessary information and education. Ultimately, this will create a safer future for Namibia’s youth.

The Integrated Childhood Development Program

The Integrated Childhood Development Program (ICDP) prepares children for their transition from foundational learning to formal education. Namibia faces a significant challenge with many children failing to meet appropriate age learning levels. This is especially difficult for children with physical or educational disabilities or children who come from rural or disadvantaged backgrounds. ICDP specifically targets these vulnerable groups.

With an emphasis on early investment, the program highlights that “children aged 0-8 years are essential and highly effective.” The importance of addressing all stages of early development is highlighted, not just regarding education but by children’s emotional, social and speech development as well. UNICEF conducted the program’s research and worked with parents across Namibia to get direct access and insights, making the program relevant, accurate and trustworthy. From 2016-2022, UNICEF states that at least 50% of children entering Grade 1 went on to attend primary school. ICDP relies on a collaborative effort involving the government and communities, the private sector and parents. The comprehensive approach effectively ensures that early child development and education remain inclusive and empower vulnerable children across the country.

Looking Ahead

All three USAID programs in Namibia target different aspects of a child’s development from their early stages to their entry into higher education and the workforce. With a concentration on the vulnerable groups, Namibia and USAID’s efforts to reduce their exposure to HIV/AIDS, increase their access to education and develop their future prospects has been effective. In particular, the focus on parent-driven research and collaboration, addresses systemic issues. While creating relevant initiatives which are trustworthy, both vulnerable children, parents, caregivers and communities are able to access and act to protect and empower disadvantaged children across Namibia. 

– Jule Riemenschneider

Jule is Oxford, UK and focuses on Good News for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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HIV/AIDS in Seychelles and the National Strategic Plan

HIV/AIDS in SeychellesThe population of Seychelles is relatively small, with only around 98,000 people reported living in the country as of 2020. However, the rates of prevalence for HIV/AIDS in Seychelles are relatively high at around 934 people, as last reported in 2020. In addition, new reported cases of AIDS appear to be rising, from 75 new cases in 2016 to 83 in 2020. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Seychelles is experiencing what is termed a concentrated epidemic of HIV. The term concentrated epidemic is specific to the study of HIV/AIDS. It typically discusses a situation where the overall prevalence of HIV is less than 1% of the overall population, but it is sustained through certain high-risk population groups within it.

In the case of HIV/AIDS in Seychelles, the high-risk groups for increased HIV transmission include sex workers, intravenous drug users, migrant workers, adolescents and men who have sex with men. In the past, the local government in cooperation with international organizations, have taken up initiatives towards combating the spread of HIV among the local population. The Seychelles government has termed these the National Strategic Plans (NSPs) which are emblematic of the country’s response to the disease over the last 20 years. Here is some information about the plans.

Information About the National Strategic Plans (NSPs)

  1. The first National Strategic Plan was for 2005-2009, in conformity with the outline that UNAIDS set. With the establishment of the National AIDS Council in 2002, the government of Seychelles opted to move the HIV resistance efforts out of the health sector and pursue a multisectoral approach to combating the disease. International organizations, such as the WHO, UNDP and UNAIDS, also offered their financial and technical support to the plan.
  2. The second NSP was for 2012-2016. This plan was built on the foundation of the 2005 plan and focused on scaling up the response to HIV/AIDS transmission. This plan aimed to help the populations most vulnerable to the disease or the source of the “concentrated epidemic.” By the end of this period, the number of reported HIV infections nearly doubled, while incidence and mortality reduced by more than half. 
  3. The third NSP was for 2019-2023. This plan aims to meet the goal that UNAIDS set, which is the 90-90-90 plan. This objective for HIV/AIDS in Seychelles is to ensure that 90% of people living with HIV is aware of their disease status, that 90% of people living with HIV are undergoing treatment and that 90% of people undergoing treatment have a reduced viral load.

The Success of Addressing HIV/AIDS in Seychelles

Seychelles has almost completely eliminated extreme poverty, which contrasts with many other African countries. Per a recent report by the World Bank as of April 2025, the unemployment rate is only at 3.2%. However, multidimensional poverty remains an issue, since socioeconomic disparities exist due to factors such as teenage pregnancy and substance abuse. These are key factors that not only increase relative poverty rates and standards of living, but also are key drivers of HIV transmission, since they make up the populations experiencing the concentrated epidemic. The NSPs have specifically been implemented to target these vulnerable populations. A few initiatives that are part of these NSPs that have gone toward addressing the HIV/AIDS epidemic include youth-friendly health services with access to post exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and condoms and community-based interventions for youth experiencing drug abuse.

Looking Ahead

While Seychelles continues to face its concentrated AIDS epidemic, its strong governmental stance, international cooperation and commitment to short-term goals are strong indicators for the future of HIV prevention and care in the country. 

– Nikhil Kumar

Nikhil is based in Lexington, MA, USA and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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People Living With HIV/AIDS in Samoa

HIV/AIDS in SamoaHIV/AIDS places a heavy burden on the health care system of Samoa, which already is known to operate with limited resources. Managing the disease requires consistent access to antiretroviral therapy, testing and long-term care services that are costly and not always easily accessible. These costs can lead to financial hardship for affected families, driving them deeper into poverty. Additionally, as individuals become too ill to work, household incomes shrink and national productivity declines.

Health Care Capacity: Data-Driven Constraints

As of 2022, Samoa allocates 6.3 % of its gross domestic product (GDP) to health, one of the highest rates among Pacific Island nations, compared to a global average of 9.8%. However, this spending is stretched: the government covers approximately 75% of that, with external aid contributing 13% and out-of-pocket spending comprising 11%.

Despite this investment, Samoa’s health workforce remains critically low, with only 0.55 physicians per 1,000 people. This falls far below the global average of 1.7 and the European Union’s 4.1 per 1,000. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 2.5 medical professionals (including nurses, midwives and physicians) per 1,000 people, yet Samoa’s national average remains below that. Rural areas fare worse, with just one health worker per 1,000 people, while some urban centers report up to eight per 1,000, according to International Health Strategies.

The imbalance means rural communities are underserved, central hospitals are overburdened and preventive outreach is limited. Faced with a dual disease burden, noncommunicable diseases like diabetes and rising infectious threats like HIV and Tuberculosis (TB) limit the workforce and curtail Samoa’s ability to mount widespread prevention and treatment campaigns.

HIV/AIDS in Samoa

As of the most recent public reports, Samoa has reported only 12 individuals living with HIV, all receiving antiretroviral treatment and in stable health, with no new locally acquired cases since 2020. A national population of approximately 216,000 (2023) means HIV prevalence is 0.005%, far below the Western Pacific regional average of 0.1%. Since 1990, 24 total cases have been recorded, with 11 still living as of the 2016 UNAIDS report. Still, low testing rates, 4–5 % of the population yearly, suggest some infections may go undetected.

People living with HIV/AIDS in Samoa often face significant stigma, leading to discrimination in their workplace and their communities. This social exclusion contributes to job loss and a lack of access to support services. This traps individuals in cycles of poverty. In a small economy, where every job counts, the loss of employment due to health-related stigma is especially damaging.

Global Support and Development Goals

International aid has been vital in Samoa’s fight against HIV/AIDS, funding prevention and treatment efforts that also strengthen education and health care. Viewing HIV as both a health and development issue makes aid more impactful and sustainable.

A key project supporting Samoa’s HIV response is the Global Fund–backed Multi-Country Western Pacific Integrated HIV/TB Program. It was implemented by the United Nations Development Project (UNDP) and Samoa’s Ministry of Health. The program focuses on testing, prevention, treatment and community outreach across 12 Pacific nations.

Conclusion

HIV/AIDS in Samoa is more than just a medical concern. It is a challenge that intersects poverty, social justice and economic development. Combating the epidemic requires medicine, education, compassion and strong international partnerships.

– DeMarlo Jon Gray

DeMarlo is based in Long Beach, CA, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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Ending Mother-To-Child HIV Transmission in Botswana

Mother-To-Child HIV TransmissionIn a landmark achievement for global health, Botswana has become the first country with a high HIV burden to earn the World Health Organization’s (WHO) prestigious Gold Tier certification for eliminating mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV. As of 2023, Botswana has reduced vertical HIV transmission rates to just 1.2%, with fewer than 100 babies born with HIV annually. This is a remarkable feat given the country’s previously severe HIV epidemic.

A Triumph Against the Odds

Botswana has long been one of the nations hardest hit by HIV/AIDS, with adult prevalence rates among the highest in the world. Yet, through committed public health efforts, the country has demonstrated that even in high-prevalence settings, eliminating new pediatric HIV infections is achievable.

The WHO’s Gold Tier status is awarded to countries that meet rigorous criteria for the elimination of mother-to-child transmission, including maintaining transmission rates below 2% and sustaining this achievement over time. Botswana’s attainment of this status is a testament to its effective health policies, strong political will and dedicated community programs.

Keys to Success: Universal Treatment and Comprehensive Care

Central to Botswana’s success has been the provision of universal free antiretroviral treatment (ART) to all pregnant women living with HIV. This policy ensures that pregnant women receive the medication necessary to suppress the virus, drastically reducing the chance of passing HIV to their babies.

Moreover, Botswana boasts high rates of antenatal care attendance and widespread HIV testing among pregnant women. Early diagnosis and continuous monitoring throughout pregnancy enable timely intervention and care adjustments, maximizing the chances of a healthy, HIV-free birth.

Complementing clinical care, robust community-based health programs have played a critical role. These programs provide education, support and follow-up services, ensuring that women stay engaged in treatment and adhere to prescribed regimens.

A Model for the World

Botswana’s achievement in reducing mother-to-child HIV transmission not only saves countless children from HIV but also offers a blueprint for other countries facing high HIV burdens. It challenges the notion that eliminating vertical transmission is unattainable in resource-limited, high-prevalence environments. The country’s success underscores the power of integrating free, accessible health care services with community engagement and strong political commitment. It also highlights the importance of sustained investments in maternal and child health programs.

While Botswana’s milestone is cause for celebration, continued vigilance is essential. Maintaining low transmission rates requires ongoing support for pregnant women, access to ART and community outreach. Indeed, Botswana’s experience demonstrates that with the right strategies and resources, the goal of an HIV-free generation is within reach, even in the most challenging settings.

As global health organizations and countries worldwide strive to eliminate pediatric HIV, Botswana stands as a beacon of hope, proving that with determination and comprehensive care, vertical transmission of HIV can be stopped.

– Meagan Beaver

Meagan is based in Zephyrhills, FL, USA and focuses on Good News and Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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Addressing HIV/AIDS in Kyrgyzstan

HIV/AIDS in KyrgyzstanHIV/AIDS remains a big public health issue in many parts of the world, and Kyrgyzstan is no exception. The country has made some progress in fighting the spread of the virus, health care system limitations, societal barriers and lack of sufficient public awareness continues to fuel its spread. Raising awareness and understanding the landscape of HIV/AIDS in Kyrgyzstan is essential for creating effective solutions that aim to rid the nation of such devastating diseases.

HIV/AIDS Demographics

The median age for HIV/AIDS in Kyrgyzstan is about 31. The prevalence rate is nearly 15% among those who inject drugs, and 0.2% rate among the entire population–about 14,600. Men account for a slight majority, having about 60% of the cases while women account for the latter 40%. Impoverished communities—especially injecting drug users, sex workers and migrants—normally have higher HIV vulnerability due to their economic strain, need and limited access to resources.

Health Care Challenges

Kyrgyzstan’s health care system faces big challenges when it comes to managing HIV/AIDS. While the country provides free antiretroviral therapy to people living with HIV, access to consistent and high-quality treatment is not equitable or equal, especially in rural and mountainous regions.

Diagnostic tools and lab equipment are not always available or up to international standards, and logistical delays can mean late diagnoses—when the virus has already progressed significantly, leading to more probable death.

Barriers to Prevention

One of the most significant hurdles to stopping the spread of HIV in Kyrgyzstan lies in social and cultural attitudes. HIV/AIDS is still highly stigmatized and is often associated with marginalized groups such as people who inject drugs or sex workers. This creates an environment of fear, where individuals at risk are reluctant to get tested for HIV. 

In schools, education on this topic is minimal or nonexistent. As a result, many young people grow up without basic knowledge about how HIV transmits or how people can prevent it. Additionally, many have misconceptions about HIV/AIDS. Public health campaigns have improved over the years, but they often fail to reach the most at-risk communities, such as rural communities. 

Injection drugs–via needle–remains one of the main transmission routes of HIV in Kyrgyzstan. Harm reduction strategies do exist, but their reach is limited, commonly only reaching citizens in either Osh or Bishkek and being held back by the stigma.

The Way Forward

To address the HIV/AIDS epidemic in Kyrgyzstan, investment in health care infrastructure is critical. This means not only economically supporting increased medical equipment and laboratories through donors, but also training health care professionals in modern HIV treatment protocols and in how to provide care without stigmatization. Improving access to health care in rural and underserved areas through mobile clinics could bridge existing gaps.

Many NGOs in Kyrgyzstan are already doing essential work in reaching vulnerable populations and offering services including the CDC–PEPFAR Partnership in Kyrgyzstan. The CDC–PEPFAR project began in 2011 when the U.S. CDC launched HIV programs under the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). Viral load suppression improved from around 44% in 2016 to 95% in 2024, PrEP became available to high-risk individuals and ART has now been provided in 26 AIDS centers, serving more than 4,150 individuals.

Looking Ahead

The fight against HIV/AIDS requires collaboration between the government, citizens and the international community. More importantly, however, the mitigation of HIV/AIDS in Kyrgyzstan requires a commitment to the wellbeing of every citizen.

– Jackson Mailer

Jackson is based in Brooklyn, NY, USA and focuses on Global Health and Politics for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Unsplash

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The Fight Against HIV in Suriname

hiv surinameWith a population of just 640,000, Suriname is both the least populated nation on the continent and the smallest in size. Despite its modest scale, Suriname stands out as a constitutional democracy where Christianity remains the dominant faith. Although it rarely makes international headlines, the country deserves attention, not only for its rich cultural diversity but also for the pressing challenges its people continue to face, for example, the fight against HIV in Suriname.

The Prevalence of HIV

The prevalence of HIV is pretty high, estimating for almost 8,000 people per year, most of them being adults. Men are at a higher risk of this disease. In Suriname, the lack of up-to-date and detailed data on HIV prevalence continues to hinder effective policymaking. To address this, international support helped strengthen national statistics offices across the region, improving data collection and reporting.

However, economic challenges such as currency devaluation and inflation have led to major cuts in health spending, resulting in frequent shortages of antiretroviral treatment. Experts emphasize the need for renewed advocacy and updated investment cases to ensure the sustainability of HIV services.

Key Groups in the Fight Against HIV in Suriname

In Suriname, NGOs play a central role in HIV prevention among sex workers and men who have sex with men. Their outreach includes individual counseling, group education sessions, condom and lubricant distribution, and referrals to health services. For sex workers in gold mining areas, prevention efforts are integrated with malaria programs. These initiatives have shown clear success.

HIV prevalence among sex workers in Paramaribo dropped significantly, from 24.1% in 2005 to 5.8% in 2012. Most sex workers now demonstrate strong awareness of HIV prevention (96.5%), high rates of testing (82.7%), and frequent condom use (90%), according to the UNAIDS report. Still, challenges remain, particularly with consistent and correct condom use. The prevalence among sex workers remains higher than in the general population, highlighting the need for ongoing targeted interventions.

The Link Between Poverty and HIV in Suriname

The fight against HIV in Suriname cannot be separated from the country’s broader social and economic challenges. More than 17% of the population lives in poverty, while 1.1% survives in extreme poverty. Poverty is especially pronounced among households with children and in the center of the country, living much below the average poverty line. These economic hardships could directly affect the national HIV struggles. Limited household resources often mean reduced access to health care, HIV testing, and consistent treatment. What is more,  women—despite outperforming men in education—remain underrepresented in the workplaces, leaving them economically vulnerable and at greater risk of health inequities.

Fighting the Disease

Suriname has made significant progress in the fight against HIV, with support from the Global Fund and local civil society organizations. Today, 83% of diagnosed individuals are receiving antiretroviral treatment, and 90% of them have achieved viral suppression — a major step toward the UNAIDS 90-90-90 targets.

As international donor funding gradually phases out, Suriname faces the critical challenge of sustaining these achievements domestically. The country’s Sustainability Action Plan for 2021–2024 makes strategies to maintain HIV prevention and treatment services, expand local funding and continue prioritizing key populations. With sustained commitment and focused action, the fight against HIV in Suriname can continue to yield progress and bring the country closer to ending the epidemic.

– Julia Skowrońska

Julia is based in Wrocław, Poland and focuses on Global Health for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr

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HIV/AIDS in Armenia

HIVAIDS in ArmeniaAlthough Armenia maintains a low national HIV prevalence—less than 0.2%, the number of new infections has steadily increased in recent years. Between January and October 2024, health authorities recorded 462 new HIV cases, bringing the total number of registered infections since 1988 to approximately 6,076. According to Anna Mergelyan, head of Monitoring and Evaluation at the National Center for Infectious Diseases, the primary transmission route was heterosexual contact (81%), followed by homosexual contact (12%) and injecting drug use (6%).

Rising Infections Among Key Populations

While the national prevalence of HIV remains low, the virus disproportionately affects vulnerable groups. Integrated Bio-Behavioral Surveillance (IBBS) studies and independent reporting indicate that HIV prevalence among men who have sex with men (MSM) increased from 2.7% in 2018 to approximately 5.0% in 2021. Additional risk groups include people who inject drugs (2.6%), transgender individuals (2.5%) and sex workers (0.2%). These trends underscore the need for targeted prevention services, especially in urban areas like Yerevan and regional centers such as Gyumri and Shirak.

HIV/AIDS Stigma and Health Care Barriers in Armenia

Despite the availability of free HIV testing and antiretroviral therapy (ART), stigma in health care settings remains a significant barrier. People living with HIV/AIDS in Armenia frequently report being denied services, especially in nonspecialized clinics. Zhenya Mayilyan, head of the NGO Real World, Real People, stated, “If we compare the situation 10 years ago and now, a lot has changed – both in the public perception and in the level of people’s awareness. However, people living with HIV in Armenia are discriminated against in various spheres of life, in particular, in medical institutions, where a person has to report his or her HIV status when they need some kind of medical intervention.”

She also highlighted specific instances of discrimination, such as a case where an HIV-infected person with a second group of disabilities was refused a spinal tap in two well-known medical centers in Yerevan. The procedure was only carried out after the intervention of a social worker from a public organization.

National Progress and Global Recognition

Armenia became one of the first countries in the World Health Organization (WHO) European Region to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of both HIV and syphilis—a milestone officially recognized by the WHO in 2018. The achievement followed years of investment in maternal health screening, antiretroviral access and prenatal care. Between 1996 and 2010, the country registered 968 HIV cases, with more than 400 progressing to AIDS. A peer-reviewed study in the Journal of AIDS and HIV Research found that most infections occurred among men aged 30 to 39 and more than half had links to heterosexual contact or injecting drug use.

More recently, Armenia has made significant progress toward meeting UNAIDS’ “95-95-95” targets. By late 2022, approximately 77% of people living with HIV were aware of their status, 81% of those diagnosed were receiving ART and 86% of those on treatment had achieved viral suppression.

Community Efforts and Harm Reduction

Local NGOs, such as Real World, Real People, Pink Armenia and Right Side, continue to lead the HIV response at the grassroots level. These organizations provide mobile testing services, legal advocacy, peer support networks, and psychosocial care. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) access has also expanded through donor-supported pilot programs.

While government reporting suggested that more than 18,000 individuals from high-risk groups received HIV prevention services in recent years, exact figures are not publicly available in English-language government databases. Independent sources note that outreach efforts remain strong, with HIV testing coverage exceeding 90% for groups such as MSM and people who inject drugs.

Moving Forward

HIV/AIDS in Armenia remains a concentrated but growing public health concern. The country has taken bold steps—from eliminating mother-to-child transmission to reaching strong treatment coverage levels—but stigma, rising infections and inadequate legal protections continue to threaten progress. Continued investment in public education, stigma reduction, legal reform and NGO-led outreach can potentially ensure that all Armenians—regardless of background or identity—have access to lifesaving HIV prevention and care.

– Mamie Hirsh

Mamie is based in Berkeley, CA, USA and focuses on Good News and Celebs for The Borgen Project.

Photo: Flickr